What does fracture mean?

The word "fracture" has several meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Here are some common meanings of the word "fracture":

* In geology, a fracture is a break in a rock or mineral along which there has been displacement. Fractures can be caused by various geological processes, such as tectonic forces, volcanic activity, and earthquakes.

* In medicine, a fracture refers to a break in the continuity of a bone. Fractures can be caused by trauma, such as a fall or a car accident, or they can occur due to underlying conditions, such as osteoporosis.

* In engineering and materials science, the term "fracture" describes the failure of a material under stress. Fractures in materials can occur in various forms, such as brittle fracture (sudden and complete), ductile fracture (more gradual and involves plastic deformation), and fatigue fracture (caused by repeated stress).

* Figuratively, the word "fracture" can be used to refer to a separation, division, or disruption in a group, organization, or society. For example, a political party might experience a fracture if it splits into different factions.

Overall, the meaning of the word "fracture" depends on the specific context and field in which it is being used.